Written by: Hannah Peltier
A Milestone Moment for NC3
The National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) is proud to introduce Gabriella “Gabby” Perkins, the student who earned NC3’s 1,000,000th certification—a milestone achievement for the network and for the future of Career and Technical Education. Achieved in October 2025 at Bishop State Community College, Gabby earned the Precision Measuring Instruments Certification from L.S. Starrett Company, marking a historic moment for NC3.
When Gabby entered high school, she envisioned a career in automotive. But a freshman-year field trip to Faulkner Career Tech Center changed everything.
“I actually came here wanting to go into automotive,” she recalls. “But at the end of our tour they showed us Airbus, and when I looked more into it, I realized I wanted to pursue a career in aviation.”
NC3 Credentials: A Pathway to Aviation and College Credit
Gabby is currently in her second year of the aviation program at Faulkner Tech (Mobile County Public Schools), which is part of a dual-enrollment partnership with NC3 Leadership School and Bishop State Community College. Every NC3 credential she completes counts toward college credit — and adds real, workforce-ready credentials to her résumé.
Her ambition is clear: to work on aircraft for Airbus, ideally in engineering or manufacturing. The credentials she has earned have already opened tangible opportunities, including scholarship offers for aviation bachelor’s programs, college credit toward Bishop State’s new associate degree, and eligibility to apply to Flight Works Alabama’s highly competitive FlightPath9 program.
A Surreal Milestone in a Student’s Journey
Gabby earned the one millionth NC3 credential through her completion of the Precision Measuring Certification, a milestone proudly celebrated by all 15 of NC3’s global industry partners. The Precision Measuring Certification (PMI) is issued by The L.S. Starrett Company, the world’s leader in precision measuring instruments supporting industries such as manufacturing and aviation, the achievement carried special significance for Gabby’s future career.
Jimmy Ertzman of the L.S. Starrett Company shared his pride in seeing the one millionth NC3 credential come from Starrett and be awarded to a student whose journey reflects the future of the skilled trades.
“At Starrett, our mission has always been rooted in supporting technical education and preparing students for successful, meaningful careers,” said Ertzman. “Knowing that the one millionth NC3 credential was a Starrett certification—and that it was achieved by a student like Gabby, who represents the future of our workforce—is incredibly meaningful to us. We are proud to play a role in strengthening our nation’s workforce and beyond.”
Bishop State (see article here) and Mobile County Public Schools also joined in celebrating her achievement by posting on social media—an experience Gabby described as surreal. “It was a very surreal experience,” she said. “People I didn’t even know saw it and said something to me… it felt good in my heart.”
Her instructor also noted that beyond this milestone, Gabby is close to completing the full Short-Certificate in Aviation Manufacturing Technology —the same early career pathway followed by Bishop State aviation students—giving her a significant head start.
Mentorship, Perseverance & Peer Support
Gabby credits much of her success to the mentorship she’s received — particularly from her aviation instructor, Dwayne Bowers. At times when the work felt overwhelming, he encouraged her to keep going. “There were times I thought about quitting… but he motivated me to try harder and not give up.” She also emphasizes the value of teamwork: classmates helping one another through labs, sharing strengths, and building a supportive community.
Redefining Her Path Forward
Before stepping into the aviation program, Gabby thought her only path to Airbus would be through the military. But with NC3 credentials offering a direct route — and concrete skills — she’s rethinking that plan. “I thought the Air Force was my only route into Airbus… now I know I can get there through NC3 certifications and programs like FlightPath.” Now, her focus is on completing the Short-Certificate in Aviation Manufacturing Technology, ultimately a career in aviation — determined, credentialed, and ready.
Why NC3 Credentials Matter
When asked what advice she would give students who are unsure about career and technical education or pursuing certifications, Gabby didn’t hesitate.
“Even if you don’t know what you want to do… if your career doesn’t work out, you can always fall back on this. You’d be more qualified than someone going in without a credential like NC3 because you already have experience.”
That perspective is reflected in Gabby’s own journey. Beyond earning the historic one millionth NC3 credential, she has completed a comprehensive set of industry-recognized certifications that mirror the skills employers expect in aviation and advanced manufacturing environments. Her credentials include Multimeter, Torque Fundamentals, Structural Sheetmetal, Electricity Introduction, Measurement, and Circuits and Tools at Height by Snap-on, along with Precision Electrical Termination by Daniels Manufacturing Corporation.
Together, these certifications validate hands-on experience with real tools, real systems, and real workplace expectations—giving students more than just classroom knowledge. For students interested in aviation—or any technical field—CTE programs paired with NC3 credentials provide practical skills, college credit opportunities, and a faster, more confident path into the workforce.
Beyond the Classroom
Gabby is also a proud girls’ wrestling athlete, recently recognized by her school for both her wrestling achievements and her NC3 milestone. She brings the same determination to the mat that she brings to the aviation lab.
Looking Ahead
Earning NC3’s one millionth certification is only the beginning. “It feels good to be recognized… and it makes me want to try even harder.” We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate Gabby’s story—and the millions of learners, instructors, schools, and partners who made this milestone possible.
Have a story to share for this year’s “One Million and Counting” campaign?
We love highlighting the students and educators shaping the future of career and technical education. Share your stories to hannah.peltier@nc3.net.